Tanzania: Prayers after attack on Archbishop's residence

Christians are calling for prayers and for peace and reconciliation in Tanzania following a horrific attack on the residence of Archbishop Valentino Mokiwa – the Bishop of Dar Es Salaam and Primate of the Anglican Church of Tanzania.

On the night of Saturday 2 March a security guard at the residence of the Archbishop was attacked by unknown assailants wielding machetes or 'panga.' The guard is recovering and the Archbishop has asked for prayers for healing from the physical and mental scars that such an unprovoked attack has caused.

There is no proof who led the attack, but people purporting to be Muslim Fundamentalists had threatened the Archbishop and his name was included on a list of 'most wanted' alongside the Archbishops of the Roman Catholic Church and Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania.

Dar Es Salaam is Arabic for 'the abode of peace' and true Islam is known as the way of peace. The relationship between Christians and Muslims across the country has historically been good. Provincial Secretary Canon Dickson Chilongani said, "For many years we have lived in peace with Muslims and so peace and reconciliation will always be at the forefront."

The Archbishop said he has only love for those who seek to bring harm and is committed to praying for them and he asks for all Christians and Muslims to join the Anglican Church of Tanzania in praying for peace.